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Gunfire broke out late Monday night in Portland, Oregon, after two police officers were wounded in a shooting, prompting a large-scale manhunt. The incident occurred around 9:36 p.m. in Northeast Portland, according to city officials, amid heightened unrest elsewhere in the city.
Journalist Andy Ngo reported that the shooting happened as leftist and Antifa protesters were occupying an ICE facility in south Portland. While authorities have not confirmed a connection between the protest activity and the shooting, the timing intensified concerns about public safety and escalating tensions.
Police said officers were dispatched to the area near Northeast 17th Avenue and Northeast Clackamas Street, where they encountered a man matching a suspect description. According to Det. Jon Richardson, the interaction was brief before gunfire erupted, resulting in both officers being shot.
The wounded officers were transported to a local hospital and were listed in stable condition. Richardson described the encounter as lasting only moments, underscoring how quickly the situation turned violent.
Portland police later released a description of the suspect, identifying him as a white male in his mid-30s wearing a black baseball cap, black jacket over a gray hooded sweatshirt, black pants, and black shoes. Authorities believe he is armed with both a handgun and a knife and may be carrying a black backpack and a green shopping bag. Police warned the public not to approach him and urged anyone with information to call 911.
City leaders expressed concern and support for the injured officers. Mayor Keith Wilson called the shooting a stark reminder of the dangers officers face daily, while Police Chief Bob Day emphasized the sanctity of life and the impact such incidents have on officers, their families, and the department. Authorities have not said whether the officers returned fire as the search for the suspect continues.[/read]